Milos offers an unusually wide variety of coastal scenery: the island has more than 75 small and large beaches. Its volcanic origins shape beaches and bays with white, red, yellow and black rocks. At Sarakiniko, entirely white volcanic formations contrast with the deep blue water; a small natural harbor lies among the rocks. At Papafragas Cave, you can swim in turquoise water between gray and white rocks that lead to the open sea. The small bay of Paliorema adds another splash of color with yellow pebbles and clear water.
Coastal Scenery and Water Activities
Conditions also vary from beach to beach. Papikinou has gently deepening water and some of the calmest waves on the island; the beach is considered suitable for children. Achivadolimni is considered suitable for surfing and kitesurfing and can be reached by bus.
From April to October, guided day trips by canoe and kayak are offered on Milos; check specific dates in advance. Boat trips around the island can take you to beaches that are inaccessible from land and let you explore caves. Check departure times in advance. Highlights for divers include underwater caves, shipwrecks from World War II and earlier periods, as well as hot springs. You can fish from a boat or from shore, as well as underwater.
Geology and Mining History
The Milos Mining Museum presents the island’s geological character and mining history through objects, photographs and images. The museum offers a self-guided experience with an audio guide in Greek, English, French, German and Italian. Mining activity on Milos began during the Neolithic period, around 8000 BC, with the extraction and trade of obsidian.
At Theiorycheia Beach, visitors can see sulfur mine carts on tracks, old rusty tools and unused spare parts in the warehouse. The museum and the mining remains at the beach offer two different ways to explore the history of mining: one through geological and historical context, the other through specific objects left behind.
Archaeological Traces on Milos
Phylakopi is described as one of the most important settlements of Cycladic civilization and as the most important city in the prehistoric Aegean. Visitors can see the Cyclopean wall, the sanctuary and palace remains there. The permanent exhibition at the Archaeological Museum of Melos in Plaka occupies three rooms; there is also a veranda and an open courtyard.
The Old Town of Klima preserves the ruins of ancient Klima, considered the island’s first harbor. Visible remains include the citadels of Profitis Ilias and Pyrgaki, sections of the market wall, parts of a temple from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, parts of the ancient theater and the site where the Aphrodite of Milos was found. The theater was originally built by the inhabitants of ancient Klima, probably during the Hellenistic period in the 3rd century BC. After restoration work was completed in July 2016, it can accommodate around 700 spectators.
The early Christian catacombs near Trypiti are considered the oldest Christian monument on Milos. Visitors can explore Gallery B, the so-called Catacomb of the “Elders,” and walk along a wooden platform there. Check access conditions before your visit.
Routes and Getting Around
Seven selected Miloterranean georoutes explore geological time, nature and the island’s history. Miloterranean Route 2, “Volcano,” is 13 km long and is described as taking four to five hours to walk. A network of unpaved roads leads to coastal settlements, chapels and mines. If you plan to use these roads, check conditions in advance.
Buses serve some areas; services are considered fairly frequent during the summer months. Check the timetable in advance, especially if you plan to take the bus to Achivadolimni Beach.
A Taste of Milos
Tavernas and festivals on Milos serve Skoufomakarono: a traditional pasta with myzithra and browned butter. Alongside the coastal scenery and historic sites, you can also discover this distinctive local specialty.
Discover more destinations: SĂ©rifos, Adamantas, Milos, Livadion, Artemonas, Sifnos, Kimolos, Cherronisos, Mandrakia, VathĂ, Ganema, ApollonĂa, Trypiti, Firopotamos, Triovasalos, Pachena, Voudia.
For the regional travel overview: South Aegean.
